Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian selection chief George Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's Ashes series.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of being involved.
"We know that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations at play, not just the physical problem, but additional elements," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a significant role. Hopefully starting in Perth. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India last month after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with setbacks in multiple past seasons causing him to miss three Australian summers in a short span.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the series.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs in any case. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for a short period, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
